Easy Outfit Tips For Any Work Environment

by Style Team31 Jul 2017 | 2:10 PM

What you wear is somewhat a reflection of who you are, whether you like it or not. And this, all the more, is important in the workplace. But how does one strike a balance between showing off your personality and looking professional while at it? There's a fine line between blending in with your colleagues and sticking out like a sore thumb in the office. Before we get to each work environment's usual garb, here are a few general tips on how to exude understated style in your work outfits:

Make sure you take your company dress code into account. Not all dress codes are the same. In your first few days in a new office, it's better to be overdressed than to be underdressed. As the days go by, observe how people dress up and change up your outfits accordingly.

Always go for comfort. Sure, there's nothing wrong with trying out trends, but consider whether wearing the latest fad would actually make you feel comfortable with how you look or not. Some trends lean on the outrageous side and can be quite tricky to pull off. Think twice before taking a sartorial risk-you wouldn't want that fashion mistake to be.

The right fit matters a lot. In the same way that comfort reigns supreme for any man, the way a garment hugs your body is also important. When you know that the fit is just right, that's one less thing to worry about.

Don't forget the small details. This includes wearing accessories (keep it to a minimum!), spritzing your signature fragrance, and making sure that your hair is properly styled, among others.

On to the next important matter: How can you look effortlessly put together while conveying your personal sense of style and taking your company rules and culture into consideration? Here are a few ideas for common work environments you might find yourself into:

For creative environments:

Most creative workplaces can be pretty lax when it comes to work wear. One can go from extremely casual (think shirt, jeans, and even sandals) to all-out formal (by wearing a blazer or leather shoes, if that's your thing). You can mix and match your items to dress up or down, depending on your mood. Since the environment is pretty laid-back, you can also experiment with colors, textures, and accessories-just make sure that these elements go well with your complete attire. Exercise restraint by keeping the unique pieces to a minimum for more impact.

There are hardly any limits in creative industries as fashion is one way to express one's self, but make sure to adjust when the need calls for it, say, meeting with a client who is known to be on the traditional side of things.

Likewise, if you're just about to enter this industry, it is still best to go to a job interview in a business attire, so as to leave a good impression to your interviewer. Save the graphic tees and ripped jeans for when you actually bag the job.

For a workplace that's slightly creative, slightly corporate:

Now this one's a bit tricky, as with all things that are in-between. Going for a smart casual look is the way to go. The definition of this dress code can be quite subjective, but it's basically just wearing a combination of a formal and an informal piece without going overboard. Think blazers and fitted jackets, button-downs in classic colors paired with trousers and boots or loafers. And if people don't consider your look smart casual, you can always say you're smart... albeit wearing something casual.

For strictly business settings:

There are some workplaces that require their employees to wear business attires through and through. Some offices opt for suits while others require barongs for men. If it's the former, go for navy blue instead of black for a dapper and modern look (as long as it's allowed). Complete your outfit with a tie with an intricate pattern or texture and you're good to go.

Whichever work environment is applicable to you, one thing is clear-dressing the part is instrumental in making a good impression. Looking presentable doesn't end there-make sure you spritz your favorite scent, take care of your skin and body well, among others, and we're sure you can walk the hallways with confidence and impressive style.